Eh? So, and again - I don't meant to second-guess our all knowing braintrust - but . . . we traded back twice - from 25 - 31 and from 31 (out of the first round) to 36 for . . . . (drumroll) . . . a fourth round pick. (wah wah wah). Um, yea. Um . . . no. Um . . . that seems really really really crappy - a fourth rounder in return for trading down more than 10 spots and out of the first round entirely. Either we're really bad at negotiating or . . . we're being cheap. Brutal.

I'm anxious to see what we do at 31, still, WTF? This dude can run, can cover, can rush, can plug, plays fast and physical - and who doesn't want to get rid of DJ? The dude can't cover and is one DUI short of a felony . . . how do we pass on Hightower for a 4th round pick? ew ew ew ew ew ew ew ew . Like I said, I wanna see what EFX does, but ew, ew, ew, ew, ew, ew, ew, ew, ew ewewewewwewewewe.

This is an emotional time for Bronco fans who like Tim Tebow and for Tim Tebow fans who pretended to be Bronco fans, alike. There are lots of opinions getting tossed about and so, instead of throwing out a bunch of thoughts, I'm going to be brief and stick to the few things I know or deeply believe to be facts. Here are several things I believe to be true:

1. Peyton Manning, if healthy, is better than Tim Tebow.

2. EFX (mostly Elway) made this move to upgrade the qb position. Given Elways comments, rumors that Brady Quinn was about to come in for Tim at several different points and on and on and on . . . I believe that Elway saw this move as his last chance to get rid of Tim Tebow. Trading out Tebow for anyone less than Peyton Manning would've likely caused a revolt and, while I'm a Bronco fan who likes Tebow (not a Tebow fan who likes the Broncos), I'm not sure I would've been o.k. with anyone less than Peyton replacing Tim after what Tim did for us last year. If EFX had waited one more year or not gone after Peyton, they would've had to marry themselves to a qb they didn't choose and don't believe-in or risk alienating the entire fanbase. Peyton was their ONLY out.

3. We are not ready to win a super bowl, yet. This team still has holes - especially if we don't resign Marcus Thomas and or Broderick Bunkley. Also, I think losing Daniel Fells was a crushing loss to our running game.

Now the opinion:

To get there, here are a number of moves I think we need to make:

1. Defensive Tackle - we need to sign Bunkley and Marcus Thomas or grab Amobe Okoye . . . something. I thought Bunkley and Thomas were good last year. If we can upgrade, great. But we at least have to maintain the status quo.

2. Tender Mike Wallace - Imagine turning the loss of Eddie into an upgrade to Wallace. Wallace, Decker, D.T. Nuff' said.

3. Sign Jeff Saturday and Dallas Clarke - if nothing else to make Peyton feel at home and to translate Peyton's language to the rest of the O-line. Also, as much as I hate to admit it because I love the kid, JD Walton had not been very good. In fact, I've seen several individual metrics ranking him among the bottom 1/3 of Centers. Dallas Clarke is a technician - we'll get what he has left, plus he can teach Julius Thomas how to run routes.

4. Identify and sign a blocking tight-end.

5. Move X - Another move I'm not thinking of. Look, we're all in. Let's trade a first or second round pick for a stud at a position of need. I mean, we've now gone from being a team who's building - to a team who wants to win a championship now.

- All in!!!! Super bowl or bust baby!!!!!!

As our defense has declined, I've noticed that Joe Mays has been on the field less and less. I haven't seen him on the injury report. When he played, I definitely saw him miss assignments and cost us some plays. On the other hand, I also saw him run plays down and overall, thought that he brought a strong presence in the middle - something we've been missing the last few weeks. Is he hurt? Has he fallen from Foxie's graces? What's the deal with him? Does anyone know?

Hiya Hiya MHR. Well, 8-5 has been achieved. For me, and most people I've talked to or read, this game against the Patriots will truly be a litmus test to see if our beloved Broncos, under the inexplicable Timothy Tebow, will be able to be competitive in the playoffs against teams like Pittsburgh, Baltimore and New England. My feeling is yes - the Broncos can be competitive and they can win this game. To do so, though, the Broncos will have to play their most complete game of the year - I think most of us can agree on that. To me, in addition to the old standby of "win the turnover battle," there are five keys to this game. They are:

1. Pressure Brady

I listed this one first, b/c I feel like we stand no chance if we fail to do this. If you let Brady sit in the pocket, unmolested, he will cut you to pieces before halftime. Still, I've seen a great many games where teams have been able to neutralize him by pressuring him consistently (against the Ravens, Giants and Steelers in particular).

2. Be Physical and Run the ball

The Pats suck at altitude - especially late in physical games. They're also not the most physical team you'll see. The Broncos need to use the O-line and pound, pound, pound. If the Broncos can wear them out, the running game will become more and more effective, like it did against the Raiders. The biggest point here would be to keep the ball away from Brady.

3. Create explosive plays in the passing game

With the way the Broncos play, these throws are there. I think Tebow will have to hit at least one or two passing plays of 25+ yards.

4. No Goose Eggs - Start fast and stay in touch

It's entirely possible that we'll be able to do the whole - don't score all game then turn it on late - and win. While it may be possible, I don't think it will work against Tom Brady. We need to put at least some points on the board in every quarter and stay within two scores (16). I'd put nothing past Tebow, but coming back from a 3 score deficit against New England wouldn't be an easy task.

5. Win Special Teams

Field position, kicking and returns could play a huge part in this game. Getting a good return or two, making our field goal opportunities and consistently pinning them deep could play a huge roll.

What I'm about to write may or may not be ripped down in five minutes, but it has to be said.  Many outsiders are trying to divide Broncos Country into two camps - Orton Supporters and Tebow Supporters.  I would say that you can maybe say there is a split among diehard fans as to their opinion of our QB situation, but that there is a third category - Tebow Honks.  Many of these people aren't even Bronco fans, they're either converted Florida fans or kids who spend too much time at youth group (no offense to anyone who attends or supports one).  Either way, they're the ones yelling the loudest, so it's their voices that get blasted all over the MSM - creating these perceived "two camps."  I'm sick of the perception that these substandard humans are representative of all Broncos' fans.  So . . . on behalf of the die hard fans -

Please SHUT YOUR MOUTHS and please TAKE YOUR SEATS.  THANK YOU. 

This goes double for during a game.  Whether your opinion is that we should go with Tebow or not, when you're at a game, KEEP IT TO YOURSELF, and DON'T BOO our team.  You're not helping anything.  For now, Fox is sticking with Orton.  He knows it's his job on the line.  He understands that Tim is popular.  He gets it.  

To those who idly stand by while Tebow Honks do their do, these people are making us look like the most unsophisticated football fanbase in the league.  Be polite.  Don't be mean.  But, please, whatever you do, please don't sit by while our good name is besmirched.  

GJ out-    

Yo,

I'm on my second viewing of the game - lots of interesting stuff going on - my complete thoughts to come.  One thing I can say - we have a very solid coaching staff.  The improvement from last week to this week, it terms of execution, is undeniable.

My observation - Kyle is playing Angry.  I LOVE IT.  He's no longer the awe shucks, just glad to be here guy.  He's like, "Y'all wanna take my job.  K.  Come and get it."  No more my bad my bad my bad, awe shucks.  The moment that crystalized this for me was when, after Dareus sacked him in the first quarter, Dareus tried to extend Kyle a hand to help him up.  Kyle refused, and picked himself up off the dirt.  I was put off by it at first, from a sportsmanship perspective,, but the more I think about it, the more I like it.  Orton needs to play with that edge - and it seems that Brady breathing down his neck is doing the trick.  That's right - I didn't mention Timmy here.

Also - is it just me or has Vern Lundquist lost it.  He mispronounced / misstated names like 30 times.  Since when does Fells resemble, in any way, Brandon Lloyd?  Yeesh.  

Look, I can't lie.  I was fairly pessimistic going in, but was mildly impressed overall.  I paid my $19.99 and have watched the game twice - all the way through wanting to do bodily harm to the annoying Cowboy's announcers - ugh.  

Overall, our roster is WORLDS better.  This gives me hope, not only in our chances to beat the 5.5 over/under Vegas has us set for, but it increases my confidence that EFX have some idea what they're doing.  We've got some football players on this roster.  

We're faster.  We're younger and more athletic.  I think we're actually going to run the ball effectively this year.  That should open up the play action game for whoever our starting QB is on opening day.  As I went through the game, here were some observations:

1. Jeremiah Johnson is a freaking beast.  Knowshon and Whatchutalkinbout' McGahee looked solid, but Johnson looks like a potential superstar.  He weighs 218 lbs, but he's lightning quick to the hole and gets up the field like no Denver running back I've ever seen.  This is insanely hyperbolic, but he looks like a big nasty version of Chris Johnson or Jamal Charles.  GREAT FIND.  

2. The first team o-line is solid - really sold.  

We were absolutely manhandling the Cowgirls upfront - I mean pushing them all over the field.  Franklin missed a few blocks, but it looks like JD Walton and Zane Beadles are ready to roll.  As good as the first team o-line was, the second team o-line was that bad.  NOOOO depth.  None.  Zip.  Zilch.  Tebow was getting pressure before he had a chance to look down the field.  Watch his long throw - it was a max-protect, cracking back into the center of the line with the RB staying in to protect and they still barely picked everyone up.  Yikes.  

3.  We do NOT have a clear-cut #1 QB (as of yet).  

Orton is Orton - he won't make the big mistake, but is also incapable of making a big play.  Third down is a nighmare, because the defense knows exactly where Kyle is and where he's going to remain - the pocket.  No scrambling, no improvisation, and he may well be the worst red zone quarterback I've ever seen.  Tebow is Tebow.  Worst practice player ever, but when the lights go on the man makes plays.  He's exciting, dynamic, fun to watch . . . but regularly screws up routine throws.  I would LOVE to see Tebow operate behind that first team o-line, with the first team running game.  I think Tebow is closer than many, including myself before tonight, think.  Brady is an oddity.  One minute he looks like a fat kid on the track team.  The next, he's making throws . . . I just wasn't that impressed.  Sorry.  I honestly feel Tebow is closer than Brady to Kyle right now.  

4.  I'm a leeetle worried about our first-team D, especially the front 7 in the run game.  

The front 7 looked porous and I still don't trust the back end with Dawkins back there.  Still, the fact that Nate Jones was nowhere near the first team was encouraging.  Bunkley and Ayers were aweful and constantly out of position.  Marcus Thomas got blown off the ball every other play.  Still, we had a pass rush and some of our younger / second and third teamers looked like they might make a push.  Ty Warren got awesome penetration on several plays.  Jeremy Jarmon looked way better to me than either of our starting DT's.  Jason Hunter was good at DE and Mike Mohammed looks like the instinctive, solid football player I thought he was.  Worried, but somewhat mildly hopeful.  

5.  I was a bit disappointed with Doom and Quinton Carter.

6.  I was blown away by Kyle McCarthy and disgusted by the fact that Nate Jones is on our roster.

7. Orlando Franklin.  Hmmm.  Never have I seen a guy be as impressive and as bad in one drive.  He absolutely pancakes someone one play then moves aside like a bullfighter the next play.  High-energy player.  Massive human with an intense mean streak.  I'm a little worried about his feet though.  

That's all I got for now.  

GJ out      

I've been a draftnik for about 10 years now - I've read articles on positional value, talked ad nauseum with a buddy of mine who worked in an NFL personnel department for 6 years and I've been a diehard broncos fan since the moment of conception.  I'm sure some will disagree, but if you look at the board critically and factor in risk, the history of positional value, the depth at each position in the draft and - as any draft expert will tell you comes last (especially when free agency will come AFTER the draft) need.  

My strategy is based on several assumptions: 1) we don't think a franchise qb is there (and I don't) at #2, 2) the d-line in this draft is deeper than it's ever been and the secondary talent is about as shallow as it's ever been, 3) D-line players in the top 10 have a higher occurrence of busting than secondary players (this is a fact), 4) we can't trade back, 5) none of our highly rated players are still there in the second; for example, if we have a guy at #5 on our board and he's still there at 36 - take him without regard to need.    

Strategy:  I think this is simple.  If you take Dareus at #2, you might get a good - great d-lineman but you will almost surely NOT get a good secondary player.  Period.  The draft is painfully shallow in the secondary and the drop-off is dramatic after Peterson.  D-line, on the other hand, is as deep as it's ever been (9 d-lineman w/ 1st round grades according to some).  Therefore, you can get a corner (in my opinion the best prospect at that position in 5 years) + a 1st round d-lineman OR you can get Dareus and . . . nobody for our secondary.  Also remember that, despite Dareus' hype, d-lineman rarely end up being as good as advertised.  Remember a certain "disruptive" "can't-miss" DT named Glen Dorsey?  Lots of similarities there.  Also, when I've seen Dareus interviewed, he doesn't seem to have the edge of a guy like Suh.  He could be great.  He could be a bust.  Conversely, I think Peterson is the safest and perhaps the best player in the draft.  That said:  

1.  Take Peterson at #2,

2.  Take Paella, Austin / best DLineman left w/ first 2nd round pick 

2a. Take TE Kyle Rudolph if still available (I hate going on need, but there is nobody else in this class at this position and who's going to be TE?  Robert Quinn?).  If not, look at RB Mikel Leshoure or Daniel Thomas.  If none of those guys are available, best player available - look for value at LB, OL or DL if a guy high on our board falls.

That's how I see it.  Go Broncos! 

After watching the combine, I feel about how I did beforehand, except that I am less excited about Robert Quinn than I had been - if nothing else b/c he looked rusty and that might be an indicator of work ethic.  In my mind there are between 5 and 7 players we could take at #2, depending on what the Panthers do.  I am 100% fine with 4 of them.

Potential picks ant #2:

Da'Quan Bowers DE

Marcel Dareus DT

Nick Fairlay DT

Robert Quinn DE

Patrick Peterson CB

Blaine Gabbert QB

Von Miller

Potentials GJ likes:

Patrick Peterson

Marcell Dareus

Nick Fairlay

Von Miller

Now, I will give my proposed strategy and explain my list and why I don't necessarily like some of the players on it.

1. Strategy: Take Peterson, use second round picks for front 7 and maybe tight end if Kyle Rudolph is available

The deepest position in this year's draft, by far, is the D-line.  The thinnest areas are TE, and DB (especially safety).  Keep in mind that we have two second round picks.  That said, at number two I think we have to draft Patrick Peterson.  First, he is the best corner prospect I've seen in the 5 years I've been mocking.  I think this kid has all-pro written all over him.  He carries himself well, no red-flags.  He's smart, lightening fast and physical.  Beyond the fact that he could probably make the pro bowl next year at any position in the secondary, you can't ignore the impact he could have on special teams.  I just don't think he's the kind of talent you can afford to let get by you.  The only problem is - I think Ron Rivera and the Panthers will agree with me and take him at #1.  I really do.  I honestly believe he's the best player in this draft.

Beyond Peterson's talent, the fact of the matter is that we will probably be able to get at least one quality D-lineman in the second round.  Will that player be as good as Fairlay or Dareus, maybe / maybe not, but if you take a DT at #2, you will DEFINITELY not get a shot at a top-flight secondary player in this draft.  Whereas, if you take Peterson, you can still probably get guy(s) like Marvin Austin or Stephen Paea or Ryan Kerrigan in the second round.  

Truthfully, I wouldn't be surprised if all three of our first picks were front seven guys.  BUT, then what do we do at corner?  We will be thin (at best) in the secondary next year with Goody, Hill, Dawkins and Champ aging.  Who knows what will happen with Parish Cox?  Sidquan can play a little, but is he ready for a full-time job at Nickel?  Maybe?  McBath has looked solid, but can't stay healthy.  As badly as we need front-seven help, our secondary is even more depleted and needs an infusion of talent we can't get in the late rounds of this draft.

2. Explaining other players I like

The big theme here is risk/reward.  I feel that these are the least risky players on the board who I feel can yield big rewards - i.e. these are the guys I am most confident will be worth the #2 overall pick and the money that comes along with it (for now).  As sure as I am that Peterson is the best overall talent, Von Miller might be the best player - especially given his versatility, instincts and speed.  He absolutely jumps off the screen when you watch him play.  I think Dareus and Fairlay are two flavors of the same dish.  Love Fairlay's frame and arms.  Still, there are some red flags there and he's built a bit thinly through the trunk.  Lower back issues later on?  Dareus, to me, is the second safest pick (behind Peterson).  He is big, stout, relentless and ran a 4.8 forty at 319 lbs.  He could end up being the best player in the draft.  

3. Other possibilities I don't necessarily like

Gabbert - I put him on the list of potential draft picks b/c of comments Elway has made about the QB position / the fact that I don't think Fox or Elway particularly care for Tebow (I could be wrong - that's just what I believe they think).  I would not like this pick - but, if you don't believe in Tebow I would understand it.    

Bowers - There are lots of people a lot smarter than I am who think this kid is the second coming of Julius Peppers.  I just don't get the same feel when I watch him play football.  He looks impressive physically, there is no doubt.  But, when you actually watch him between the lines, he doesn't jump off the screen like Patrick Peterson, Von Miller or even Robert Quinn.  He's big, but he plays tall and I don't think that's going to work in the NFL (a loooong way from the ACC).  I think he'll be solid and could be a stud.  I could be 100% wrong.  I just don't think he's worth the #2 overall pick.  To be perfectly honest, he reminds me A LOT of Jarvis Moss - except Moss looked more impressive to me and played with better leverage.  

Robert Quinn - This guy is the real wildcard and I put him here only b/c I just think there are less risky picks that have a high / very comparable upside.  Number one, the kid had brain cancer - which can recur, maybe it won't, who knows.  I don't think his suspension is a big red flag character-wise, BUT he looked rusty at the combine - indicating that he didn't work as hard?  Look at how his buddy Marvin Austin did - since the first day of the Shrine game, that dude has been dominant and - to be perfectly honest - could be as good as Dareus or Fairlay.  I think Quinn could be an all-pro.  He could also be a total bust.  I just don't think you can take this kind of risk when there are so many other great alternatives.

GJ's Top 10 Big Board

1. Patrick Peterson

2. Von Miller

3. Julio Jones

4. Marcell Dareus

5. Nick Fairlay

6. Robert Quinn

7. Da'Quan Bowers

8. Blaine Gabbert

9. Cory Liuget

10. Nate Solder / Prince Amukamara

Top 3 picks mock: Ideal

#2 - Patrick Peterson CB

#36 - Stephen Paea DT

#46 - Daniel Thomas RB

Top 3 picks mock: if Peterson is gone

#2 - Marcell Dareus DT

#36 - Kyle Rudolph TE

#46 - Marvin Austin DT

- GJ out

I can already hear the comments below:

"Not sure where you are coming from here.  John wants a winner and Tebow is a winner."  etc. etc. etc. etc.

That considered, I still have to say this.  Many of the comments / posts / fanshots echo the theme of "Tebow + Elway," woo hoo!!!!  However, if any of you listened to Elway's comments on Tebow - last week on the Fan - it fell far short of a ringing endorsement.  You have to remember that the incoming VP of football operations, even if he's John Elway, can't badmouth the extremely popular incumbent rookie QB.  It sounded like this was the only thing stopping John from saying that Tebow isn't the guy.  Fact: a majority of personnel people don't feel that Tebow can be a pro bowl level quarterback.  Speculation: I believe Elway is one of them.  He referred to Tebow as "raw" and having "a lot to work on."  This was just a week after he gave a ringing endorsement to Andrew Luck.  

All I'm saying is don't assume that Elway's hiring will necessarily gel with Tebow's tenure.  From Elways not-so-subtle overtures to John Harbaugh to his hiring, itself, It's obvious that we're going to hire the people we want - not necessarily the people who want Tebow.  Don't be surprised if we make a move to move up to Number 1 and take Luck.  Trading Orton or Tebow to Carolina and likely trading the other for a second round pick or so.  

I like Tebow.  I think he can be a franchise guy and hope that we give him a shot in 2011.  I just wanted to caution all those who automatically assume that Tebow is the future.  

I'd like to think that, as a professional and as a person, I am a measured individual.  I have been processing information, and didn't want to express my opinion on recent Bronco happenings until I had looked at everything and really formed an opinion based on my observations.  That said, it's time.  I can no longer sit back, out of the fray.

1. Josh McDaniels:

I think the MSM I tend to agree with on this is is Michael Lombardi.  Awhile back, I said we needed to give Josh time - the length of his contract  (see my old post entitled "Judging Josh") and we didn't.  he was a 32 year old rookie coach who wanted to completely change the direction of the franchise - in all respects.  What did Bowlen expect?  I think Josh will be a great head coach someday and I think we didn't fully commit to the process of change.  I think we just gave some other team's coach, a guy with a huge brain and balls of steel, some on-the-job training alla the Browns and the Hoodie.  I also think that, in all likelihood, our next coach will get rid of Tebow, which kind of ticks me off (unless we draft Andrew Luck :).  

At the root of my anger, I guess, is the unfulfilled promises of what was to be.  We hired the foremost/sexiest QB guru whiz and I couldn't wait to see him in action.  First, I was excited to see what Josh could do with Cutler.  That didn't happen.  Then, I started having visions of a big, physical quarterback, with intangibles and endorsement deals coming from all orifices, leading us to super bowls through sheer force of will and his superior acumen for the game of football.  His name?  Timothy Richard Tebow - the most marketable athlete on the planet playing for my team and killing it.  Now that won't happen either.  Instead, during Josh's tenure, I was able to watch Josh take Kyle Orton to the height of his talents.  Boy, that was exciting (yawn and sigh).  Don't get me wrong.  Kyle's not the problem and I understand that.  I just feel like we were promised a red Maserati convertible and got a dark green Mazda sedan.  

Like the Hoodie's last year in Cleveland, this year was a perfect storm of injuries and everything that could go wrong going wrong.  I wish Bowlen would've seen that and given Josh one more year to win.  Many believe that after spygate and the Raiders game and all of the controversy that there was no coming back.  It's possible that these people are right.  Still, I just can't help but feel that letting him go this early was a mistake.      

2. The QB situation

You know what they say, when you have multiple options at QB, you have none.  I think Tebow can do it.  I really do.  I think I need to see him throw more to know if he's ready - and Josh obviously didn't think he was - but I think he can be a solid starter or better.  That said, the GM and, ultimately, the new coach should be chosen on the basis of who is best for the job - not who will love / feature and adore Tim Tebow.  Unfortunately, I think Bowlen and his doppelganger, Joe Ellis, might be seeing dollar signs in Timothy's eyes and might base their search, in part, on what that person can do with Tim Tebow.  This is fine as long as it's not the determining factor.  

I don't see any prospects in this draft that I want - other than Andrew Luck.  And there is no way we get him.  Carolina plays Atlanta in Atlanta next week.  Never . . . Going . . . to . . . happen.  So, I expect the new regime to come in and say what new regimes always say - it's an open competition.  They might trade one or more of the guys we have, but, if they don't I expect it to be Brady on Kyle on Timothy crime next fall.  

In the end, i believe in Tebow over Orton.  I think Orton has a cieling and can win big only in the presence of a superior defense and a GREAT offensive line.  I think Tim can be a special QB and has unreal upside.  He can make all the plays Orton can make, along with a million others that Orton can't.  McD called it "unplanned production."  Kyle Orton doesn't even know what this means; whereas, Tebow has the potential to drive coordinators crazy with it.  

Tebow.  Unless we can get Luck - then we consider drafting Luck especially if there's a rookie pay scale.  We'd be able to trade him or keep him and use him.  

3. Elway

I love John Elway.  I watched the NFL film of the Green Bay Super bowl today and couldn't help but get choked up at the end.  The truth is that I think that John should take over for Joe Ellis.  I cannot stand Joe Ellis.  I don't like his tone.  I don't like his haircut and I think he's the reason Josh is gone.  Remember, a week before Josh was fired Pat said he had no interest in making a coaching change.  Then he issued a seemingly contradictory statement.  Then he fired Josh.  Either Bowlen is schitzo or Joe Ellis is pulling the strings and moved Pat off of his original position - which is what I think happened.  

All of that said, I wouldn't mind him being an assistant GM or assistant director of football operations or . . . .  I don't think he's qualified to be a GM or head coach.  Still, he's John Elway.  If he's our coach I'll love him.  If he's our GM, I'll love him.  But I think he'll have more of a front office position and am very glad that he's back in the mix up at Dove Valley.

4. The future:  I wish I had answers, but at this stage I think it's even more important to identify the questions.  

a) What organizational structure will we have?  I think we need a GM first, then a coach.  

b) Is Tim Tebow the QB of the future?  If not, can we afford to spend more draft picks on the offense (especially QB) with our D in the state it's in?

c) What is Champ's fate?  If he goes, given Cox's likely non-future, do we almost have to go after Patrick Peterson if he's there?  Our secondary is soooo old.  Dude.  

d) How long will it take for the new GM to cut Nate Jones?  Hopefully less than 5 minutes - at least that's where I'd set the over.  

There are obviously a million more questions - honestly, I'm too tired at this point to go on anymore.  

Much love MHR.  I'm going to stop now; otherwise, I might go loco. 

-GJ out    

I've watched every interview McD's ever given during his tenure as head coach.  I've read every quote he's uttered publicly and watched every game he's coached with the Broncos.  From this, I feel I understand the guy as well as any fan possibly can.  I am basing my prediction on this "perceived understanding" and certain other facts and observations.  My prediction, for the most part, is based on the following:

1.  McD is not afraid to adapt and shake things up if he thinks it gives him the best chance to win and we are not winning.

2.  McD is a gambler and is not afraid to risk failure in order to achieve success.

3.  McD loves Tim Tebow, a lot.  He has always said that Tebow will be ready to roll much earlier than everyone expects.  

4.  Nobody expects Tebow to play a lot - the 9ers probably expect to see Tebow sparingly in a in the swamp package.

5. Our O-line has been terrible.  Let's just call it what it is. Whether it's Clady trying to get healthy or Ryan Harris' injury issues, or our inexperience or whatever - we can't run the ball and we're extremely suspect when it comes to pass-blocking.  When the season started, I had no inkling we'd be this bad along the offensive (emphasis on "sive") front.  But, we are.  This is relevant because, as good a passer of the football as Orton is, he's limited as an athlete and simply cannot escape any sort of pass rush.  Tebow can.

Prediction:  Tim Tebow will either start or come in the game early (or early in the second half) and get substantial work as a "real" QB.  I predict that McD will have a set of plays / audibles / hand signals that will allow him to run the offense without Orton on the field.  I think Tebow will run, throw and play and play well.  If he moves the offense and scores points, McD will leave him in there.  If it doesn't work after a couple of series, we'll go back to the neck-beard.

Do I think it would've come to this this early if we hadn't lost like we did to the raiders?  Likely not.  However, I think McD will take this step and I think he'll do it this week.  Ordinarily, I'd worry that this would destroy Orton's confidence, but it's Orton.  The guy is iron-clad.  The worry I would have is whether this would shake the other players' confidence in Kyle as the unquestioned starter.  This is a risky move and I'm not saying this it's right or wrong, I simply predict McD will do it.   

-GJ out

Now that Zane Beadles has apparently supplanted Ryan Harris at RT, one has to ask whether we'd be better served with Harris at LG in front of Hochstein and Daniels.  6'4" 300-320 is prototypical for left guards, Harris is 6'5" 300, why not?  From what I've seen of Daniels and Hochstein, and what I've seen out of Harris in the past I'd say this is a no-brainer if McD is dead set on putting his second-rounder at RT and still keeping the best 5 on the field.  

I thought that Harris would transition well, but maybe he isn't a great fit for this system (although I thought he did well last year).  Either way, I have a hard time believing that Ryan Harris isn't as good as Russ Hochstein or Stanley Daniels - even if it's not at his normal position.  I just can't buy that.

Size-wise: Remember, the Pats drafted Mankins in the first round, so that has to be considered the benchmark for this system - 

Logan Mankins - 6'4" 307-310

Ryan Harris - 6'5" 300

Russ Hochstein - 6'4" 305

Stanley Daniels - 6'4" 320

Did anybody see where Brandon Lloyd was on the injury report "not injury related."  I mean, we have enough key players on the injury report for "injury related" reasons.  Any idea what's going on here?  Did BLloyd get caught upon da wacky wizneed?  What is the deallyo.  I'm getting to the point of utter exhaustion with this.  If its not kuper, it's Harris.  If it's not Baybay, it's Knowshon.  I mean, seriously.  Can we catch a break?  And now this?  "not injury related?"  ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME?  Can someone shed some light on this for me?  Please tell me this is ridiculous, that I'm overreacting and that our deep threat will be on the field on Sunday.  Please?

Many "experts" and fans around the league feel that Kyle Orton is not an elite quarterback.  They say his physical limitations will never allow him to take a team, put it on his back and lead it to victory as John Elway used to.  These people feel that, as long as Denver has Kyle Orton as it's quarterback, we will be a joke, an afterthought - never a true contender in the playoffs or in high profile contests.  As the post recently noted, we are currently a national afterthought and that annoys me, b/c I think we're better than the pundits are giving us credit for.  If healthy, Waaaay better!!!

Enter the Colts.  With a somewhat non-compelling slate of games on in the late time slot, the world will be watching.  If ever there was a time for Kyle to step up and show everyone what he can do, it is RIGHT NOW.  The chips are down, our team is banged up beyond all recognition and Kyle's about to square off against the only NFL quarterback in the history of the game that one could logically argue is better than John Elway - I would disagree, of course.  It's time for Kyle to show his mettle, his leadership and for what Kyle Orton is made of to show through.  He's not a diva like Romo or Buttler or Favre - he's a truly selfless player who kills himself to get better and to play for his teammates. If you think about it, the only person on our team that might actually be more likeable than Tim Tebow, is . . .  Kyle Orton.  Anyway, I digress.  The point is that Kyle can prove a lot of people wrong this weekend and take a giant step toward establishing himself as an elite level quarterback - both nationally and in the hearts and minds of Broncos' Country.  More importantly, I think he can prove to himself, to McD and to the team around him that he's got what it takes to rise in these types of situations.    

Now, many of you will say that kyle doesn't care what people think and that we shouldn't care about other people's opinions anyway, and there is definitely validity to that.  However, to be honest with you, I want to see it.  I love how Kyle is playing, but I want to see him go out there and, win, lose or draw, I want to see him stand toe to toe with the best and see how he measures up.  I guarantee he sees that as a challenge.  I would also be willing to bet that his teammates and coaches will also be watching intently to see how Kyle responds to this stage with the adversity that is currently upon us..  

In the words of the great Brian Dawkins, "Respect is not given, doggonit, you have to TAKE IT!"  

It's time for Kyle to "Take It."    

There are many things the Denver Broncos can do this weekend to beat the Colts.  We can stop the run.  We can run the ball, execute on offense and keep Peyton off the field.  We can pressure Peyton, hit him and cover well.  All of these things are common knowledge.

As I watched JMac's presser today, however, it occurred to me that WE, as fans, could hold the key to this week's contest.  We all know the following:

1) Mile High light or, as you may refer to it, Invesco Field at Mile High is not the loudest environment in the NFL.  

2) No QB audibles at the line of scrimmage as much as Peyton Manning.

Nothing can disrupt Peyton's ability to check plays and communicate at the line of scrimmage more effectively than us, the fans.  So I pose this challenge to all of you who are going to the game (no I'm not going b/c I live in Kansas City and went last week), GET LOUD!  Get in Peyton's head!  Don't stop when he makes big plays - because he will.  If you guys quiet down as soon as they get going, which I've noticed happens at Invesco at times, he'll slice and dice our defense as if we were in Indy.  Make it tough on him and show him that the Mile High magic lives on!  

It's been said before and I'll say it again.  I'm not so sure McDX hasn't already tried this, but who else thinks that we need to make a play for Logan Mankins?  I like Beadles and I think he will be a solid starter on the interior, but . . . who is not excited by this thought:

Clady   Mankins  Walton  Kuper   Harris

That's ummm, well, if you're a Broncos fan, that should be the football equivalent of a 23 year old Carmen Electra in a little black dress.  I mean, come on.  

Everyone, I think, could agree that we would love Logan Mankins to become a Bronco (cheap shot on Ekuban, notwithstanding).  The question for us to really debate, in that regard, is at what price.  I'm sure the Pats don't want to let him go for less than a 2nd round pick.  What's that you say?  We have an extra second round pick next year that we got from the Phish (that's Dolphins, for those of you wondering)?  What a great scenario.  I propose we go at Belicheat offering a 3rd round pick + Stanley Daniels or Russ Hochstein for Mankins.  If he plays hardball, then maybe offer a second.  Remember, Mankins is a pro bowl type guy drafted in '05.  This is a stud coming into the prime of his career.  He's unhappy and wants out of NE.  It's probably a guy who also has a good relationship with McD.  I think this move makes sense and I'd love it if we did it. 

Drawbacks of this idea: 1) If Harris is healthy, it's not really a position of need - we just drafted Beadles high, this move would make him a back-up, although he'd still be about as good a "depth" player as there is in the league; 2) we're already a little short on picks next year as it is, so trading away a third or our extra second would make it tough to come away with a big haul next year in the draft. 3) The lockout - it'd be tough to bring in a guy like this that you know you're going to have to PAY right before a lockout.

Positives of this idea: 1) We'd have the best offensive line in the NFL, right now (with Harris healthy).  Period.  2) You're getting a 4th year STUD O-lineman for a good price, maybe b/c of relationship, maybe because of labor climate, but, you gotta love it - he could be the next Stink.

Maybe the Pats would go for it, maybe they wouldn't.  Maybe it's a good idea, maybe it isn't.  But, one thing is for certain.  It's about as sexy as an o-line trade could ever be.

GJ OUT 

K.  We're not bad.  In fact, we're prettyt good.  But as you have to admit if you actually watched the game, we're not that good either.  That is, the fourth best team in the AFC South just beat us.  Should we have won?  Sure.  Woulda coulda shoulda . . .  Anyhoo, I'm super-frustrated.  This is ridiculous.  We're better than this.  With Harris and Doom, we win that game by 3 touchdowns, in my opinion. 

Sure, 

1.  Ryan Harris' absence was felt more than I could ever say.  We missed him big-time.  I said this last year after he got hurt in KC, he's the most important player on our team - provides a run presence, etc.  

2.  Our D did o.k.  Still, O.k. is not enough.  We have multiple pro-bowlers, Champ, Dawk, Hill . . ., if they play at the top of their game, we can't lose that game.

3.  McD's obsession with bringing Tebow into the game early killed our early rhythm and lost us the game.  I am as big a Tebow fan/apologist as anyone, but this cannot be ignored.  We should've jumped on them as we did with everyone else.  Tebow was simply an early-game distraction.  Unfortunately, it distracted us more than it distracted them.  I love the guy, but Orton needs the reps early.  That was hard to watch.  I'm not going to lie.  

4.  Knowsh looked pretty good.  Buck, didn't really look like buck.  I'll be honest, we need another tailback.      

REALITY:

- We are a damn good team.

- We can stop the run, despite the deficienacies of our play-caller - Wink.

- Kyle Orton, when not hampered by Tebow, can win us a game.  

-Tim Tebow was not utilized correctly.  I know you will all want to kill me for this.  The right way to use Tebow was halfway through the third quarter.  It would've thrown them off-guard and allowed Tebow to do what he does best - throw the freaking pigskin - should we have made it look like tebow was a red herring.  He could've helped us in the second half.  I don't really care what you think.  I'm right.  

Adam, yeah, that's right.  My name is Adam.  I'll say, without hesitation that the broncos are the best team in the AFC west.  Still, we need to pull it out and play some F(!%^&* football.  Go Broncos!

Adam - the A in gjcontingent-rAd.  The R is Ryan and the d is Dan.    

I like the thought.  I just think we did a poor job of executing.  That said, we can be better.  We can win the division.  We can win a lot of games.  STILL, we have a lot of way to go.

I hope you all realize that what I'm saying is out of tough love.  I love this team more than you can ever imagine.  But it's real.  

Sincerely,

Adam

I know, I know.  It's a Josh McDaniels injury report, don't read too much into it, right?  Well . . . .  There are several listed on our injury report that are scaring the bejesus out of me:

1) Darcel McBath - questionable for week 1 what is up with this?  He looked so good against Cincy.  I love how he plays, but he is questionable and I haven't heard anything about him since he went out.

2) Andre Goodman - I love Cox as must as the next guy er . . . but this would be brutal.

3) Is Knowshon playing?  

4) DG -- AHHHH!!!! Dan Gronkowski, the brother who isn't good, is our back-up, while our second rounder Richard Quinn has played himself to the third string.  We CANNOT function w/out DG.

5) Champ'll be there.  Bay bay -  not really sweating it.  Anything we get out of him this year will be a plus.

Much has been made of our injuries with Elvis and all, but I see at least three indispensible players on that list who might not play - DG, Goodie and Knosh.  Anybody else a little concerned?

- Courtesy CBS Sports - 

This is brutal.  It's hard for me to even write about it . . . so I won't.  O.k.  I will.  In McD's time, this is the one move (along with trading up for richard quin) that simply left me scratching my head like . . . huh?  Other controversial moves . . . I got.  Tebow, I got it - the ultimate character / leader and the ultimate project mechanically for a QB guru. McBath in the 2nd when everyone else hated it, I got it - super productive, physical safety in a league full of NFL qb talent he still had huge ball production and lead the Big 12 in INTs.  DThom over Dez and others, I got it - Bmarsh size, with better speed, soft-spoken kid who came from nothing, has a huge football IQ and all the upside in the world.  BTW, I especially loved the touch of making our first two players #88 and #15.  Awesome, and don't think that was unintentional.  

I also love how McD wheels and deals and just seems to generate draft picks out of thin air.  Even his controversial free agent moves . . . I've understood.  Cutting Andre Davis, Stokely, Reid . . . .  I've seen how his philosophy comes through in those moves - valuing special teams etc.  But the Phonzy move was a mistake, and we all have to call a spade a spade, even if it's a deuce - or double deuce in this case.     

Any of you who know me know I'm a McD apologist.  I also love his bold moves and conviction.  I think he's a genius.  I was willing to cut him some slack on his first draft b/c he hadn't been here that long, didn't have his people in place to evaluate talent etc . . . .  But, he has to temper that aggression a bit in that situation, no?  If you haven't had time to evaluate talent, why not wait, keep that extra 1st round pick (capital) and use it in a deeper draft to go up or down or pick?  In that situation, why make that move on that player?  Sure he had great ball production and he looked like the second coming of Asante Samuel.  But can you imagine the draft we would've had this year had McD not thrown away the Phonz pick?  I mean . . . it could have been historic.  Tebow, Thomas and maybe trade up to take McClain in the first?  You could literally devote a post to what could've been (please do this, someone).

Bottom line, everyone makes mistakes.  I'm not calling for McD's head or anything.  But this is a dark dark day when you look at the piece or pieces we missed out on had McD applied his situational philosophy to his situation as a new coach.   

By the way, does anyone know what "undisclosed draft pick" we got along with Gronkowski for Phonz?

Really, Broncos' Country?  You're O.K. with this?  

I love Tim Tebow.  He's smart, hard-working, and I feel he's going to be a good quarterback, great if he fixes his mechanics.  

I plan on going to Invesco this week to watch my beloved broncos take on the lowly lions.  I am watching for many things - improvement on special team coverage, to see if Orton can sustain his high level of play against a better defensive front (Vandenbosh, Suh are better than Cinci), to see if our Rookie lineman look as beastly against Detroit as they did against Cinci and, finally, to watch Tim Tebow.  

One thing I really really really really hope I don't see . . . more Tebow Gator jerseys.  If you're a gator fan, good for you.  You look like a tool wearing a college jersey to a pro football game.  If you want to migrate to Broncos Country because you love Tim Tebow, great!  Welcome!  Join the rest of the world and buy a Tebow broncos jersey.  

I don't particularly hate Florida, although I'm sure those of you who do will concur.  The last thing I want to see at a broncos game is a bunch of florida fans who root for Tebow but not the broncos.  Am I wrong, dude?  Am I wrong?   

To clarify, the following portion of my post is directed to SB Gatornation members / tebow fans who are not yet broncos fans and others considering choosing their Tebow Gator jersey over a bronco jersey - so as not to confuse or anger those of us who are unable to handle the slight transition in direction / tone:

I simply request that anyone planning to wear your gators Tebow jerseys to Invesco, don't.  Please cut your tailgate a little short, stop into the team store inside the stadium and buy yourself a bright, shiny Tebow jersey.  Blue?  Orange?  White?  Whatever color you want would be great.  Gator colors even.  Just leave your college gear at home.  Pllleeeeeaaaaaseeeee.  

Hello All,

I haven't posted in awhile but, as the season is about to begin, I thought I'd weigh in and predonculate (best noun ever -combination of predict, prognosticate, calculate and either donkey or ridonculous - either way, can't miss).  

Keys to the Season:

1. Our O-line - Honestly, this is my biggest concern, period.  JD and Zane look solid but . . . starting two rookies at C and G is really pretty crazy.  I know that Hochstein and the Olsen twins (ha) are in there, too.  Still, with injuries to Harris and Clady still looming a bit, I'm concerned.  This is especially scary given that we will probably have to be a running team to win this year - at least we'll have to establish the run to control the clock, open up play action and keep our bad - a## yet aging defense off the field.  This could be fine - Clady and Harris could be healthy, Kuper heals up and Zane and JD turn out to be studs.  Still, there are A LOT of "ifs" there.

2. WR Corp -  I'm concerned here.  I might be in the minority in that respect and, trust me, I'm as glad as anyone that what's his name is gone, but . . . we don't really have a "LEGIT" #1.  Lloyd?  Willis?  Eddie?  Gaff? Stoke?  No, No, maybe, No and too old.  The rooks (at least one) has to step-up here or Kyle could get killed (given the O-line situation and a lack of weapons)  This will also put pressure on the running game b/c teams can load the box and not fear any deep threat.  I was REALLY disappointed when McKinley went down again. I was really hoping he'd step into a role this year.   

2. Health - I know, I know.  But Doom aside, how our new front three, especially JWill, and our secondary, especially Dawk, hold-up will determine how good our defense can be.  Also, given recent losses at linebacker, we can't afford any more injuries at that position.  I think Ayers and Mario will step it up in Doom's absence, but we're getting thin.

3. Sophomore Surges Must Happen - Darcel McBath, Robert Ayers, Knowshon Moreno, Alphonso Smith, Richard Quinn and, to a lesser degree, Bruton and Olsen.  These guys are keys to our future and to depth on our team.  If these guys all step-up and play to their potential, I think we have a chance to do some special things.  I'm really going to be watching guys like Phonz, Quinn and Ayers in the preseason.  I've heard good things, but camp can be deceiving.  

4.  Rookie Contributions -  I would love it if all of our rookies were gods . . . but they won't all be good.  We know that.  What we need is for several of them to step-up and contribute, in all phases, at some point when they're needed.  One of our big weaknesses, in my opinion is wide receiver.  As much as you all want to get excited about Mathew Willis and Brandon Lloyd, remember that Lloyd has done the stud in camp, invisible during the season act MANY times before.  Either Thomas or Decker needs to have an Eddie Royal-like rookie year or we're in deep, deep trouble.  Sure we have Gaff and Stoke, but we need a young weapon in there - a guy who can take pressure off of eddie (especially b/c he's going to be returning kicks).  

5. Coaching - Wink, let's see it, bro.  I like what I hear.  I like the "aggressive" stuff.  Now, let's see if he can call a 3-4 D and make adjustments as well as Nolan did last night.  This might also cause a stir, but I'd also like to see some development in McD's playcalling.  We know he can do it when he's got nothing else to do (see '07 Patriots).  I wasn't exstatic with what I saw last year and I'd like to see some maturing and some more creativity this season.

I'd love to write more, but the wife is calling me.  All feedback is appreciated.  Go Broncos!!!

I have watched and/or listened to every interview ever given by Josh McDaniels. I have read every quote, studied every move, and listened closely to the message and to the manner in which it has been delivered. From what I've seen, I believe. 

I believe that Josh McDaniels will win a super bowl as a head coach in the NFL. I believe he will win far more games than he loses in his coaching career. I believe he is principled, maybe to a fault, passionate, and as hard a worker as you will ever find in any business, anywhere on the planet earth - except for ants, those little guys do REAL work - anyway . . . . I think he has gigantic balls, a very clear vision and pays absolutely no attention to the media's opinion of him (as evidenced by the fact that his assistant filters everything and just gives him the general idea of who's with him and who's against him on any particular day). He is going to do what he thinks best regardless of the consequences.

Whether you think he is a fool or a genius, a boy king or the genuine article, one thing is for sure: Josh McDaniels is his own man. If I was Pat Bowlen, I would give him 10 years. I would not make the mistake Cleveland made with Belichick by giving a talented coach a shot and then firing him just as he was ready to start winning. I don't want us to prime Josh to go win 5 super bowls in Green Bay or Tennessee. Bottom line: I believe in my guy and I'm going to stick with him. 

My whole idea for this post was to 1) express my opinions of Josh McD, 2) list several observations that led to the formulation of my criteria for his judgment, and 3) list the criteria / timeline by which I will judge Josh McD's career in Denver - hopefully you will agree.

OBSERVATIONS:

1. Josh's judgment should begin this year because he is just now getting all of the pieces he wants. We are SOOOO YOUNG and SOOOOO NEW. If you scan the roster, the number of players that have been drafted or signed from '09 and later is absolutely striking. Josh is still building, but he's got HIS guys now, so it's time for him to groom them and develop them in his system. For me, the "clock" on his time in Denver starts this year. 

2. Josh is a gambler, a feel player at that. If you compared him to a poker player, you'd have to go with Tom Dwan "Durrr". He's confident, makes big moves and doesn't care about what others say. He plays against the grain and usually wins. He will constantly keep your team in the spotlight, which, is valuable to the franchise in the long-run. His eyes are on the reward, not necessarily the risk. 

3. Josh is brilliant and not afraid to change. This is probably the best argument for giving him a longer timeframe to succeed. He's not a constant comodity that either will succeed or fail - he has the ability and a willingness to adapt, along with the intelligence to make his adaptations effective. For instance, Tom Coughlin is who he is and he'll never be anything different. He's going to run things a certain way, want certain systems and pieces in place and his "brand" will either succeed or fail - it will not change. In contrast, Josh's system and mindset is always changing and evolving to fix problems and further fortify strengths. I don't care what business you're in - if you find and employ someone who is brilliant, hard-working, adaptable and 100% committed to success, you're going to succeed. Period. Ever read "Who Moved My Cheese?"

4. Josh's relationship with players is hard to get a read on. On one hand, he's all Parcels: "The player this" and "The player that," totally old school. On the other hand, he runs around fist-pumping to the home fans and celebrating with players. He will really test the theory that you can't be a strict disciplinarian and still be a players coach because he's obviously going for both. Jarvis Green, for one, said that Josh's enthusiasm is one of the things that brought him to Denver. It's tough to say if this will make him the most beloved coach ever, cause him to lose the locker room, or both. I think over time this will be easier to figure out. If it goes the wrong way, it could spell doom for Josh. One of the biggest criticisms of him is that he doesn't know how to differentiate his treatment among players and that he doesn't work well with others (Mike Nolan, Jay Cutler, BMarsh etc.). I'm not sure if Josh's need for control is good or bad yet. It is, however, a bit worrisome. 

5. Josh McDaniels is good for Denver. He is the most controversial figure in Denver sports. He is a lightening rod, a polarizing figure and he has brought more media attention to the Denver Broncos than I have seen since . . . well, just about ever. He is exciting, interesting, brash . . . . In short, he will bring attention and money to the franchise and, if he wins, he will restore the mile-high magic that has been lacking since Elway left. 



TIMELINE AND CRITERIA:

1) No matter what, Josh should have a minimum of 6 years, starting this year (7 total). This is not a one, two, or three year process. Sure, winning in the NFL is everything. That is exactly why you don't want to hand-pick a coach and then not give him a fair shot to learn, develop and build your team. There are going to be mistakes and a learning curve. There are going to be times when you want to go in a different direction - DON'T! This guy is committed, brilliant and adaptable. He has all the tools to learn and grow into a great coach. He has balls and he's going to garner attention for your program as long as he's there. He's the Jerry Jones of coaching, but smarter and far less annoying - more substance to the balls and less flash. It's like Jerry has silver balls and Josh has gold balls. Ya dig? 

2) The criteria are simple: 
a) winning better than 62% of his games over the next 6 years (10-6 is 62%) and 
b) winning at least 3 division championships, and 
c) either making it to the super bowl once or making the playoffs 4 out of the 6 years, or
d) fixing the end of the year slide routine by 2011.
OR
e) Winning a super bowl. This eliminates all of the above criteria because it is, of course, the ultimate measuring stick.


If he meets or exceeds these expectations - keep him and it's been a success. If not, it might be time to pull the plug unless we suck in years 1-4 and then go 13-3 and 14-2 and make the AFC Championship both years. I think the above-stated criteria provide a pretty suitable platform for judgment; but ultimately, he needs to win football games and perform especially well in the division, at the end of the season and in the playoffs. 

The Packers and Steelers are stealing and raping,

Broncos in minicamp, chemistry making,

Of course the Dukes says we're worse while he sings, 

These are a few of my favorite things.

Thomas and Harris and Tebow now passing,

Our front three now are all monsters not fasting,

Denver's new Defense is top five it seems, 

These are a few of my favorite things.

When Clady's hurt, when Clayton talks, when I'm feeling sad,

I just think of my favorite things - and then I don't feel sooooooo baaaaaaaaaaaad.

Marshall his hip and his mouth have all left now,

Pardon me if I'm not suddenly bereft now,

We fleeced the Bears Fins and Chargers as teams,

These are a few of my favorite things.

Cutler's a d-bag his collar is popping,

WIthout our O-Line he's ripe for the stopping,

How many people have to lose their jobs,

Before they see Jeff George . . . er . . . Cutler's a slob

When the Packers rape, when the Steelers rape, franchises oh so sad,

I just remember I'm a broncos fan, and then I don't feeeeeel soooooo baaaaaaaaad.

It sounds like our new D-coordinator (former LB coach) is wasting no time in doing something we should've done a long time ago by giving Spencer Larsen a shot to start at ILB.  All I have to say is, IT'S ABOUT TIME!!!  I remember the Atlanta game in '08, when he and Woodyard started - that was the best our linebacking corp had looked in 5 years.  We shut down Michael Turner and the league's second leading rushing attack.  Then, inexplicably, he was pulled in favor of Ian Gold or whoever other crappy linebacker we had and we couldn't stop anyone for the rest of the entire year.  Since then I've asked several times, "Why in the name of god do we not play this guy regularly on defense?"  He is a tough, hard-hitting, smart, active, versatile player who can cover and stop the run.  How has it taken our team - between our last two head coaches - this long to give him a shot at the starting job.  I'm not saying we should take him off of special teams.    

I know he's versatile.  I know he can play fullback.  That's fine, but who cares when the guy obviously appears to have elite potential as a linebacker?  Kudos to our staff (probably Wink) for finally realizing this and reportedly allowing this kid to focus his energy on his natural position - Linebacker.  I don't know about you guys, but the idea of starting DJ, Elvis, Larsen and then Ayers or Haggan (whoever earns the job at OLB) really appeals to me.  If Haggan would be better at ILB and he earns the spot, fine.  I just don't see how we could have a better option at ILB for next year than Spencer Larsen, unless we take McClain in the 1st.  Again, this appears to have Wink's fingerprints all over it.  He must have seen something in Larsen that Shanny and Nolan missed.  If inserting Spencer Larsen into the rotation is one of Wink's first initiatives, I like this guy already.     

(For those of you who don't know what I'm talking about, check the FANSHOTS section for a link to the profootball weekly blurb about this).  

It would seem that this answers the question of how McD currently views Quinn's role on the team - as a project we obtained at a relatively low price.  Still, if Kyle performs poorly in camp and or in the preaseason and Quinn is tearing it up, Kyle's seat could get warm in a hurry.  In light of this development, however, I anticipate that Kyle will be under center on opening day in 2010. 

As stated on rotoworld:

"SI.com's Peter King reports that Broncos coach Josh McDaniels called Kyle Orton immediately after Sunday's trade for Brady Quinn to inform Orton he's still the team's starting quarterback.  There's little doubt that Orton will take the first snap at OTAs, but he's still going to have to out-practice and outperform Quinn in exhibition games to stay atop the depth chart. McDaniels may view Quinn as his long-term pet project. With better physical tools, Quinn offers more upside than Orton."